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"I was recently diagnosed with esophageal cancer," the 74-year-old Killebrew said in a statement obtained by the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

"With my wife, Nita, by my side, I have begun preparing for what is perhaps the most difficult battle of my life. I am being treated by a team of medical professionals at the Mayo Clinic. While my condition is very serious, I have confidence in my doctors and the medical staff and I anticipate a full recovery."

The 1969 American League MVP, Killebrew finished his career with 573 home runs and 1,584 RBI in 2,435 games with the defunct Washington Senators (1954-60), Minnesota Twins (1961-1974) and Kansas City Royals (1975).